OREANDA-NEWS. March 12, 2015. This week, Southwest Airlines® (NYSE: LUV) hosted Chase Rapid Rewards® Credit Cardmembers for a Rapid Rewards Access Event at The Ritz Carlton in Sarasota, Fla., where they had an up-close experience at Spring Training. Cardmembers bid or redeemed their Rewards Points for this opportunity to be treated to a meet and greet with Baltimore Orioles pitcher Kevin Gausman. Cardmembers also enjoyed lunch at the ballpark while they rooted for the Orioles in a game against the Philadelphia Phillies.

"This unique event with the Baltimore Orioles through Rapid Rewards Access Events is something only made available to our Chase Rapid Rewards Cardmembers," said Jonathan Clarkson, Southwest's Director of Rapid Rewards. "Earning points is easy, and points are easy to use. If you haven't already, we encourage you to sign up for the card, start earning points, and join us for more one-of-a-kind exclusive events already scheduled for 2015!"

Each time Rapid Rewards Cardmembers swipe their Card, they are one step closer to a destination vacation. Through the More Rewards platform, Cardmembers aren't limited to redeeming their points only for flights. Gift cards, merchandise, hotels, reservations, and rental cars are available for redemption, and Cardmembers can bid to attend exclusive Access Events, ranging from Caribbean beach getaways to Vegas weekends.

"We are excited to offer this exclusive experience to our Cardmembers," said Naney Pandit, general manager, Chase Card Services. "In addition to the travel rewards the Southwest Rapid Rewards Card offers, we are able to provide Cardmembers access to terrific events throughout the year."

Additional events Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card Cardmembers can still bid on for 2015 include a wine weekend in Napa, Calif., a Beach & Golf Getaway in Cancun, Mex., and VIP weekend events in Las Vegas.

ABOUT RAPID REWARDS

Originally launched in 1987, Rapid Rewards Members earn points by flying or through qualifying purchases with our partners. Members can redeem their points for every seat, every day, on every flight with absolutely no blackout dates or seat restrictions, and points won't expire with any earning activity in a 24-month time period. Points are earned for every dollar spent on Southwest flights. The amount of points earned is based on the fare and fare product purchased, with the number of Rapid Rewards Points that are needed to redeem for flights varies based on factors such as destination, time, day of travel, and availability. Rapid Rewards Points are also earned by spending with a variety of Rapid Rewards Partners. Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers can redeem their points for expanded international travel, gift cards, hotels, car rentals, merchandise, and more. Learn more about the program by visiting the Rapid Rewards web site.

ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.

In its 44th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 46,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually.  Southwest operates more than 3,400 flights a day, serving 93 destinations across the United States and five additional countries.  Southwest service to San Jose, Costa Rica, begins in March 2015; service to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, begins in June 2015; and subject to government approvals, service to Belize City, Belize begins in October 2015.

Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity while over the United States.  That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to access streaming music provided by Beats Music or to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as nearly 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued Partners.  Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply), and there are never change fees, although fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look:  Heart.  The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives.

From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic wherever the carrier serves. With 42 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2013 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at Southwest.com/citizenship.